Chapter 71

"Not okay. Not even close." "Alex, I've never really hoped you'd marry me..." Madeleine forced a smile, eyes shimmering with tears that just wouldn't fall. "Just hide me away somewhere... keep me out of sight. I'll behave, promise." All she needed was for him to break off the engagement. All she needed was for him to stand up and say the bullies were guilty. She was ready to give everything to him for that. Alex pulled her into his arms and hugged her tightly. "Maddy… just give me a little time," his voice was hoarse—torn. For a second, he actually considered throwing everything away and saying yes. Taking her home and hiding her from the world. "Give me an answer at the business gala." Madeleine knew Alex too well. She knew exactly what she was asking for. She wanted him to use the bullying verdict as a reason, his excuse to cut ties with the Merritts. It was the only leverage she could hand him. … At the hospital. The doctor frowned after examining her. "That ear injury… it's this ba